Query templates with functional template blocks

Abstract

A computer program product and method of visual cues is provided through the use of query templates with functional template blocks to assist in building queries by giving visual cues about valid options, expected constructs, and required syntax. The one or more visual cues each have one or more of a valid option, expected construct, and required syntax. The invention provides a graphic user interface display to assist a builder in query creation.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of the Invention[0002]The present invention relates to computer program products and methods for database queries, and more particularly, the present invention relates to a computer controlled display system for displaying and generating visual cues on a graphic user interface of a display for query creation.[0003]2. Description of Related Art[0004]Crafting and creating well-developed queries is a challenge for even the most experienced programmers. In part, this challenge arises due to unfamiliar query constructs, query syntax and query construction logic it is understood that query constructs include all of the functions and expressions that can be used to build a query. For instance, it is understood that the SQL CONSTRUCT QUERY statement constructs an SQL statement text string from a list of data items and literal values. Query syntax is understood as the rules determining how the constructs can be combined to create a query. Query const...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

Facilitates query creation by automatically displaying necessary information and syntax, reducing the need for users to know what assistance to seek, thereby making query building more accessible to novice users and improving the query creation process.

Problems solved by technology

Crafting and creating well-developed queries is a challenge for even the most experienced programmers.

In part, this challenge arises due to unfamiliar query constructs, query syntax and query construction logic it is understood that query constructs include all of the functions and expressions that can be used to build a query.

Most of these tools are reasonably suited for the intermediate to advanced users and programmers, but many are often difficult to use without substantial instruction and practice.

While the content assist tools are helpful they also prove insufficient to adequately accommodate query building needs.

One challenge in the use of typical content assist tools is that a builder is required to invoke the content assistance in the tool before it can be used.

Unfortunately, the knowledge of what and where to obtain the necessary information itself presents a challenge, as such requires a skill set that the novice builder often does not possess and thereby prevents the builder from obtaining the help needed from the content assist tool.

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